Winter Weather Driving Safety Tips

Winter is one of the most joyous times of the year, thanks in large part to the Thanksgiving and Christmas holiday seasons. While you’re making plans to spend the winter enjoying the company of your family and friends, it’s also important that you consider the safety of your loved ones, as dangerous and sometimes deadly accidents are all too common during the coldest months of the year.

Keeping an eye on safety will make sure that you don’t suffer any serious injuries while trying to stay warm during the winter season. Use these winter safety tips to stay healthy and happy during the year’s coldest season, and be sure to consult a personal injury attorney if you are in an accident.

Preventing Major Fires

Although there are a variety of ways you might be injured during the winter, the most common is in a fire. Winter brings several fire hazards, including those that occur while cooking a holiday meal. Fortunately, with a few precautions, you can avoid most major fires.

First, when cooking, be sure that your stove is never left unattended. You should also handle hot items with care and make sure a fire extinguisher is close at hand. Second, if you usually decorate a Christmas tree, refrain from stringing too many lights, which may increase your chances of an electrical fire. Also, don’t delay disposing of your tree, as they become more flammable as their needles age and dry.

Avoiding Winter Traffic Accidents

Because of the increased risk of ice and snow, winter is one of the most dangerous driving seasons there is, with countless accidents occurring every single year. When you venture out in your car this winter, it’s crucial that you follow proper safety techniques.

First, when the snow and ice start falling, you should decrease your speed so that you will be better able to maintain control of your vehicle and avoid accidents. Second, you should be certain that your windshield is clear, and that your headlights and taillights are in working order. Finally, if you lose traction, do not try to stop too quickly, as jamming your brakes will cause your vehicle to spin out of control.

Stay Warm While Being Safe

For most people, staying warm is their main focus during winter. However, the quest for warmth also comes with a major health hazard: carbon monoxide poisoning. Gas furnaces, propane stoves, and portable generators all give off carbon monoxide, and if this gas builds in your home without you noticing, it can poison your family, potentially causing brain damage and even death.

To limit your risk of carbon monoxide poisoning, you should be sure that that your furnace or stove isn’t leaking into your home, and that your portable generator is a safe distance from your house. It is also imperative that you install a carbon monoxide detector so that you will be alerted if this dangerous gas builds to unsafe levels.

What Happens After Winter Safety Tips Fail?

Because winter can be such a precarious season, it’s possible you may still be injured, even if you’re following winter safety tips. After you’ve suffered a serious injury, it’s a good idea to consult a personal injury attorney to find out if you’re eligible for a personal injury suit, which is why you should get in touch with the professionals at Lowry & Associates.

Lowry & Associates is focused on helping our clients after they’ve suffered a major injury, and we are here to discuss your options for legal action after a winter accident. Discuss your case with us today.

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Maine Personal Injury Lawyers Disclaimer: The content of this website is presented by Lowry & Associates. It is not intended to be legal advice, but general information related to legal issues commonly encountered with personal injury. If you or a loved one has suffered an unjust personal injury, contact us for a free case evaluation. Serving the Bangor, Biddeford, Lewiston, and Portland, Maine area.